The plan, which has sparked controversy and questions from families, is sponsored by network180, the mental health agency for Kent County. The forum will be at 6:30 tonight at Hope Network Career and Education Center, 775 36th St. SW in Wyoming.

The Michigan Department of Community Health is creating a new program for handling "dual eligibles" -- those who qualify for Medicaid and Medicare. The health department says the goal is to "offer person-centered, coordinated services that meet the unique needs of dual eligibles." It also aims to fix problems that arise over conflicting rules for coverage.

Critics, however, charge that the program will lead to cuts in services and loss of local control.

The community forum will provide information about the planning process and inform those affected how to let their voices be heard. Network180 Director Paul Ippel has urged families to let the state know what is important to them in the delivery of services.

The state is to develop the program in the next five months and submit it to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Ippel said.

At a similar forum in Allegan County, Marianne Huff, the executive director of the county's mental health agency, said she fears the Michigan Department of Community Health plan will greatly reduce community services. It would redirect about $900 million in federal Medicare and Medicaid service money to private companies to manage.